Recently Higherlife Foundation Co-Founder Dr. Strive Masiyiwa was honoured with a Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) for his contribution to entrepreneurship, philanthropy, his active anti-corruption stance and his incredible influence on business leadership by Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.
In his acceptance speech, the internationally recognised telecoms entrepreneur, commended the University for fostering true entrepreneurial spirit in its students and stressed the importance of the students going out into the world and being game changers by actively seek new possibilities in these challenging times and creating jobs for themselves. “As hopeful graduates going into the job market, during this extraordinary time with extraordinary challenges, you should leave today to create jobs and not look for them,” he said.
Described as a crusader for his fearless campaigns to stamp out corruption in Africa, Dr Masiyiwa also honoured the legacy of Nelson Mandela saying, “When you hear about Nelson Mandela’s [footsteps] you don’t think about following in them – they are so big you could live in them.”
A man with incredible influence and recognition, Dr Masiyiwa also encouraged the students to aspire to be the best of the continent’s entrepreneurs by relating his own journey to entrepreneurial success. With only $75 he started the global telecommunications enterprise, Econet Wireless whose presence can be felt in more than 15 countries in Africa, Europe and the East Asia-Pacific region. Under his trailblazing leadership and guidance Econet went on to grow into the diversified telecommunication group it is today.
A devout philanthropist Dr Masiyiwa, Co-founded Higherlife Foundation which has impacted over 250000 children through education. He has also supported many initiatives and charities that involve health issues, agriculture and education in Africa.
Recently named among the 50 World’s Greatest Leaders published by Fortune magazine, Dr Masiyiwa, is truly committed to driving innovation and the spirit of entrepreneurism in today’s young people as captured by his words to the graduates in the Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences at the University.
“Whether it is with $75 or R75, we need an entrepreneurial revolution on this continent.” On his Facebook page Dr Masiyiwa, shares tips on how to perfect the art of entrepreneurship and he continues to inspire the young African generation to change the world.
For more on this visionary leader please visit: http://www.econetwireless.com/strive_masiyiwa_blog/
